Slow Cooker Ham

Slow cooker ham is a delightful dish that brings the warmth and comfort of family gatherings to your dinner table with minimal effort. Picture a succulent boneless ham simmering away for hours in your slow cooker, enveloped in a rich sauce made from light brown sugar, honey, and Dijon mustard. The result? A meal that’s both sweet and savory, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual weeknight dinner. It’s truly the kind of dish that fills your home with a mouthwatering aroma that lingers long after the last bite.

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I first discovered how simple and satisfying this slow cooker ham recipe is during a busy holiday season when cooking multiple dishes seemed overwhelming. As guests filled the house, the slow cooker worked its magic, ensuring the ham was tender and flavorful without demanding my constant attention. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you toss everything in, set it, and let the magic happen. I can’t wait for you to experience this satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Quick: Just 5 minutes of prep time and then let the slow cooker do the work for about 4 hours.
• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet honey, rich brown sugar, and tangy Dijon mustard creates a mouthwatering glaze.
• Eye-Catching Appeal: This ham not only tastes fantastic but looks stunning on any table, especially during special occasions.
• Flexible Serving: Whether it’s for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or a casual dinner, this dish fits the bill perfectly.
• Diet-Friendly Options: A versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3-5 pound boneless ham: Ideal for slow cooking, this cut keeps moisture locked in while cooking evenly. If you can’t find boneless, a bone-in ham works too, just adjust the cooking time.
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelizes beautifully to create a fantastic glaze. You can substitute with brown sugar alternatives but expect a different flavor profile.
• ¼ cup honey: Enhances sweetness and contributes to the glaze’s stickiness. Maple syrup can be a delicious alternative if you’re out of honey.
• ¼ cup Dijon mustard: Gives a nice tang that perfectly balances the sweetness. Honey mustard can work in a pinch, but it will change the flavor slightly.
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity that brightens the overall flavor. White vinegar or lemon juice can be substituted but with less complexity.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a subtle savory depth to the flavor profile. Fresh garlic can also be used for a bolder taste; just use 1-2 cloves.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Complements the flavors of the glaze and enhances the savory aspects of the ham. Fresh onion works too, but the texture might be different.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick to the glaze. Feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.

How to Make Slow Cooker Ham

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the inside of a 5-6 quart slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking when the ham cooks. This simple step saves you time on cleanup later!
2. Add the Ham: Place the 3-5 pound boneless ham into the slow cooker, ensuring it fits snugly without cramming it in.
3. Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup packed light brown sugar, ¼ cup honey, ¼ cup Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until smooth. This glaze is what makes your ham so flavorful!
4. Coat the Ham: Pour the sauce over the ham, making sure it’s evenly covered with the mixture. This will create a beautiful glaze as it cooks.
5. Cook the Ham: Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours. The ham is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
6. Rest and Glaze: Let the ham rest for 15 minutes after cooking. Brush it with the juices from the bottom of the slow cooker for added flavor before slicing.
7. Slice and Serve: Once rested, slice the ham and serve it up to your eager guests. You can drizzle any remaining glaze over the slices for an extra touch.

Storing & Reheating

Once cooled, store leftover ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re really in love with your slow cooker ham, you can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just pack portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. When reheating, gently warm in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave until heated through, usually around 10-15 minutes. While freezing might slightly change the meat’s texture, adding a splash of broth when reheating helps restore moisture and flavor.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

• Don’t skip spraying the slow cooker — it prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; removing it at 140°F ensures it remains juicy and tender.
• If you’re crunched for time, you can cook it on high for 2-3 hours instead of low, but keep an eye on the temperature!
• For a deeper flavor, consider letting the glaze sit on the ham in the fridge for a couple of hours before cooking.
• Leftovers can also be used in sandwiches, salads, or even breakfast dishes for thoughtful meal prep!

Slow cooker ham is a straightforward and delightful recipe that encompasses the essence of comfort food. Your kitchen will smell divine while this dish does its magic, seamlessly transitioning from a simple family meal to a festive showstopper for any gathering. I encourage you to experiment a bit with the glaze to truly make it your own, whether through additional spices or a twist of citrus.

If you’re ready to bring this mouthwatering slow cooker ham to life in your kitchen, gather your ingredients and let’s make some memories!

Recipe FAQs

How long do I cook the ham in the slow cooker?

Cook the ham on low for 3-4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F. Depending on the size of the ham, cooking time may vary slightly, so it’s good to check sooner rather than later.

Can I use a different type of mustard?

Absolutely! While Dijon mustard adds a nice flavor, you can use yellow mustard for a milder taste or even spicy brown mustard for a bit more kick. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor profile may shift.

Can I make this ham ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ham and the glaze the night before. Just store it separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, place it in the slow cooker and let it do its thing.

What should I serve with slow cooker ham?

This ham pairs wonderfully with side dishes like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve leftover ham in sandwiches, omelets, or salads for a more versatile meal option.

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